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Tibetan Terrier

Tibetan Terriers are a medium-sized breed with an effortless stride. The double
coat is either straight or wavy, but not curly. It should be long, although it should
not touch the ground. The outer coat is abundant and fine. The undercoat is supple
and wooly. All colors but white are allowed in this breed. The head should be moderate
in length with a distinct stop and a strong muzzle. The dark brown round eyes are
large and wide set. They are generally rimmed in black. The high-set, pendant ears
are moderately large and v-shaped. The nose is black and the teeth meet in a scissor
or reverse scissor-like bite. The lower jaw is slightly bearded. The muscular neck
is moderate in length merging into a compact, powerful body. The topline should
be level. The forelegs should have slightly sloping pasterns. They should also be
straight and parallel. The muscular hind legs should be built with low set hocks
and well-bent stifles. The large, round feet are flat which provides support for
this breed in the mountainous terrains. The feet should also be heavily coated between
the toes and pads. The tail is moderate in length and has excessive feathering.
It is also set high and carried in a curl over the back.

Temperament

Tibetan Terriers are sweet, loving, gentle, good-natured, lively and willful. They
are devoted to their families when respect has been earned. They do not like to
be left alone. They love to bark and make great watchdogs, but their bark is like
a rising siren. Although they have a charming personality they also have strong
guarding abilities. They are generally cautious around strangers.

Height, Weight

Height: 14-17" ; Weight: 18-30 lbs.

Health Problems

The Tibetan Terrier can have flea sensitivities.

Living Conditions

The Tibetan Terrier is okay for apartment living if it is sufficiently exercised.
They do best with at least a small yard.

Exercise

This breed enjoys long walks and romps in the yard.

Life Expectancy

About 12-15 years

Grooming

As a show dog, the Tibetan Terrier's elegant coat necessitates hours of skillful
grooming. It should be brushed every few days to keep it from matting and tangling.
Extra attention should be shown to the leg joints, beard and the hindquarters. Regular
bathing is necessary. Remove excess hair from the ears and between the pads of the
feet. This breed sheds little or no hair. A well-groomed Tibetan is great for allergy
sufferers.

Origin

Tibetan Terriers were originally bred by Tibetan monks to use in the Himalayan Mountains.
This ancient breed was used as herd dogs as well as encampment watchdogs for Chinese
nomadic traders. Tibetan Terriers are said to have contributed to other Tibetan
breeds. In Tibet, this breed is a symbol of good luck and was commonly given to
adventurous travelers as a 'good luck' charm. However, this breed was never sold
and was not discovered outside of this area until Dr. A.R.H Grieg performed emergency
surgery on a merchant's wife. To thank the doctor, the merchant gave her a Tibetan
Terrier. She eventually received several more of these 'gifts' from different people,
including the Dalai Lama. Dr. Grieg began to breed these dogs and her third generation
was recognized by the Indian Kennel Club. In the 1930s, she relocated to England
and established a Tibetan Terrier kennel. This breed was recognized by the Kennel
Club in 1937. They are also recognized by the AKC and the UKC.